Question

in 250 words or more Compare and contrast the musical practices of the pre-conquest indigenous peoples of Mexico with the pre-conquest musical practices of Africans. cite 2 different references.

Answer 1

Introduction-The traditional music of Africa belong to tribal music and ethnic music. The African music is a kind of mixed music influenced by rituals of different tribes. The pre indigenous music of Mexico belong to Maya civilization and influenced by Mayan rituals and symbols of tradition.

Here is few comparison between pre conquest African and Mexican music.

1.     The instrument musical instruments used in pre conquest African music was most probably percussion instruments like drums, sit gongs etc.

2.     The Mexican musical instruments are indigenous by sounds and related to cultural rituals some example of these instrument are: Flutes, Conches, double flutes etc.

3.     African and Mexican music are related to cultural diaspora so that the rhythms and instruments are not pro creative but to include traditional making of instruments.

4.     Mexican society enjoys the vast array of musical genres showing the Mayan influence as well as other regional backgrounds. While the African music comes from tribal music and nomadic backgrounds.

5.     African rhythms are not similar to Mexican rhythms. The sub Saharan instruments grouped in five parts as membranophones, chordophones, aero phones, idiophones and percussion. While the Mexican musical instruments divided into two parts as wind instruments and percussion instruments, these instruments frequently used in rituals and cultural festivals.

Conclusion- By above comparison, we can find the vast similarities and differences between pre conquest Mexican and African culture.

The social developments and physical environment of civilization also are important factors which influence music.

References-

1- Studies in African Music by Jones A.M. (1959)

2- Music of Arica; Nketia, Khwabena J.H. (1974)

3- Primary source of Maya History; Barnett A

4- National source of Guatemala.